Dietary Plant Extracts in Improving Skeletal Muscle Development and Metabolic Function

Skeletal muscle is a critical tissue for physiological activity and energy utilization, and its insulin resistance is indispensable for the development of Type 2 diabetes. Dietary intervention has become one of efficient methods for enhancing metabolic health of skeletal muscle. Plant extracts from fruits, tea, vegetables, and Chinese herbal medicine, have been demonstrated to enhance myogenesis, reduce muscle atrophy, and improve muscle oxidative functions. In this review, the current knowledge about plant extracts and their application in the management of skeletal muscle development and metabolic function are discussed. The possible underlying mechanisms are also described. Based on existing literature, dietary plant extract supplementation is a promising method of maintaining skeletal muscle mass and alleviating muscle-related metabolic diseases.